Something as small as your cabinet hardware can change the look and feel of your bathroom or kitchen. As new styles emerge, you have more options than ever before — so how do you know what’s right for you and your space? Discover how to choose cabinet hardware and find the perfect finishes that complement your design style and personality.
Not all cabinet handle hardware is the same. From sleek, modern options to unique statement pieces, there is hardware for every design style.
Before looking at the design and color of your cabinet hardware, you first need to decide on cabinet pulls versus knobs. You can mix and match these handles or opt for a single style throughout your design, and both pull and knob hardware comes in various designs and sizes. If you want to incorporate both types of handles into your cabinetry, pulls are typically used for drawers, while knobs are used for cabinet doors.
Pulls are ideal for drawers because they allow you to use your whole hand to open the drawer instead of just your fingertips. A wider grip gives you better control, especially for heavier drawers. If you prefer an all-pull look, it’s best to place your pull handles horizontally for drawers and vertically for doors.
Pull-handle cabinetry can give your bathroom or kitchen a more modern look. Popular pull handle styles include:
Bar and arch pulls are classic pull handle options, but take some time to consider all your options. It’s important to find a handle that matches your style and is comfortable to use. You’ll use these handles multiple times a day, so you’ll want to make sure you like the way they feel, not just how they look.
Knob handle hardware for kitchen and bathroom cabinets is most commonly a geometric shape. However, novelty design options are available as well. You can find novelty cabinet knobs in a wide variety of shapes, from animals to flowers. Whichever design you choose, ensure the knob is also comfortable in your hand.
Knob handles boast a traditional and classic look. Some popular knob handle styles include:
Whether you go for knobs or pulls on cabinets is completely up to you and your personal style. However, even if you opt for an all-knob handle design, you may still want to use pulls for any heavier drawers or doors, such as a pullout trash compartment.
Another way to customize your cabinet hardware to fit your design style is through its color and finish. Some popular hardware finishes include:
If you want to create a monochromatic look, choose a finish that matches your cabinets. If you’re looking for a pop of color or want to add contrast to your color scheme, try matte black kitchen hardware for cabinets.
Having a hard time choosing a finish for your kitchen cabinet hardware? Look to your appliances for inspiration. What color and finish are your refrigerator, dishwasher and sink faucet? Look at options that complement your current appliances, as well as ones that add contrast.
Design trends are constantly changing — it’s essential to focus on your own taste and style to ensure you love the look of your kitchen or bathroom for years to come. After all, you’re the one who will use the space daily. The most important person to please is yourself!
However, we sometimes need a little help finding our style. You can use these cabinet hardware trends to inspire you during your design process:
Explore these stylish cabinet hardware ideas to transform your bathroom space:
The knobs you choose for your bathroom cabinets add a subtle finish that can help bring your design together. Knobs are relatively easy to change out, giving you room to experiment before choosing your favorite options. These are three simple but popular options:
Cup pulls are perfect for adding some geometric features to your bathroom. Selecting pull cups that contrast your cabinets is also an easy way to add a pop of color to your space. Cup pulls come in various colors and materials to suit different styles and price ranges. You can find brass, brushed nickel, antique pewter and steel cup pulls with different finishes.
If you want to create themed rooms, a bathroom is a good place to start. Your bathroom cabinet hardware is a subtle but powerful touch.
Consider the overall style of your bathroom, the color and finish of your cabinets and the theme you want to encapsulate. For example, if you are going for a beach theme in your bathroom and have powder blue cabinets, you could add sandy-colored or white knobs to achieve a beach house-inspired feel.
If you’re wondering how to choose the right kitchen cabinet hardware, picking a style you love can help you simplify your choices. You can add these hardware style ideas to your kitchen remodeling checklist:
If you’re replacing your current cabinet hardware, the existing screw holes will guide where you place your new hardware. However, if you’re replacing a knob with a pull or vice versa, you’ll need to determine the new placement yourself.
Follow these guidelines to find the proper cabinet handle placement for knob hardware:
Follow the same rules for pulls by placing one end of the hardware where your knob would go. Ensure the pull is level before securing the other end.
The center of the drawer is a classic option when adding pull hardware. You can also place the pull slightly above the direct center if it feels more comfortable for you. This same idea applies to knob hardware. Align the center of your bar knob or other knob hardware with the center of the drawer.
No matter your style preferences, cabinet hardware gives you a versatile and simple way to experiment with different designs around your home.
When you want to elevate and upgrade your home, Wolf Home Products offers a great selection of beautiful, high-quality cabinets, vanities and more. From traditional cabinets to more unique models, we offer several cabinet options for various design styles and preferences. Find a dealer in your area to start renovating or designing your new space today.
